While cervical disc pathology can unquestionably produce radiculopathy, many patients presenting with arm pain, paresthesia or perceived weakness do not exhibit the clinical behavior of true nerve-root compromise. In these cases, failure to differentiate the primary pain generator may lead to unnecessary spinal injections, nerve ablation procedures or surgical consultation despite limited likelihood of benefit.
Tracy Litsey
Tracy Litsey has a background in government ethics and consumer advocacy, and has been a writer in alternative health topics for more than 10 years. She currently works with the Communications Department of National University of Health Sciences, and produces educational materials for a publisher in the field of Eastern philosophy. She earned her baccalaureate degree in political science from Wheaton College.